Purpose: To explore the differences between top and middle managers’ selection profiles. To that end, we assessed three important criteria: analytical intelligence, emotional intelligence, and personality.

Methodology: The study compared two groups of managers (N=383): top managers (N=98) and
middle managers (N=285). To measure the three factors, we used reliable, validated tools. Using discriminant analysis, we defined the strongest differentiating factors of the two groups.

Results: Significant differences were obtained in the areas of the three factors, i.e. in general mental
ability, some aspects of the personality dimension, and some facets of emotional intelligence. Discriminant analysis showed that facets of emotional intelligence most strongly differentiate the two
groups.

Implications: We describe and explain the typical profiles of top and middle managers with the
three factors.

Originality/value: These results are useful in the selection and development process of the organization.